Human Machine Interface Design in Modern Vehicles

The human machine interface (HMI) in a vehicle is subject to constant change. The growth in number and complexity of technical systems in the vehicle cockpit confronts the driver with new displays, components, and interaction logic. Automotive HMI deals with three different scopes including infotainment, comfort features, and driver assistance features. The chapter starts at the basis of psychological and physiological needs of the user and describes, based on the user's needs, an HMI development process that results in an interactive system that is safe and easy to use. Therefore, research (from market segmentation to personas), the definition of goals, use cases, and functions and the importance of requirements as well as of the validation process are described in detail. On the basis of these, classifications of displays and controls (interface design) as well as the definition of the interaction design can be carried out. Also, a short overview of future trends will give the reader some indication of emerging technologies and interactive paradigms that will influence the next generation of automotive HMIs. Keywords: HMI, human machine interface; human machine interaction; usability; user experience; interaction design; displays; controls; user needs; user-centered design; validation